In a significant diplomatic achievement, Libya has been chosen to host the 2026 African-Turkish Summit, the African Union (AU) announced on Monday. The decision was made during the 38th AU summit, held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from February 15-16, according to a statement released by Libya’s Presidential Council.
The announcement highlights Libya’s ongoing efforts to reclaim its influential role in African affairs after years of political turmoil. The statement credited the successful bid to the diplomatic efforts of the Libyan delegation, led by Mohamed al-Menfi, head of the Presidential Council. Al-Menfi and his team played a pivotal role in securing the hosting rights, which are seen as a major step in Libya’s journey to reestablish itself as a key player on the continent.
“This decision reflects Libya’s commitment to restoring its active role and leadership position in Africa,” the statement read. It also emphasized Libya’s historical contributions to advancing economic, political, and sustainable development cooperation across the continent.
The hosting of the 2026 summit is not just a diplomatic win for Libya but also a testament to the international community’s renewed confidence in the country’s potential. The statement noted that Libya’s selection underscores its strategic importance in fostering dialogue and collaboration between Africa and key global partners, particularly Türkiye.
“This hosting represents renewed international recognition of Libya’s pivotal role in enhancing Africa-Türkiye relations,” the statement added. “It aligns with broader goals of advancing shared interests, promoting economic growth, and building stronger partnerships to address the continent’s challenges and opportunities.”
The African-Turkish Summit is a key platform for strengthening ties between African nations and Türkiye, focusing on areas such as trade, investment, infrastructure, education, and technology. The event is expected to bring together leaders, policymakers, and business representatives from across Africa and Türkiye to discuss pressing issues, including economic integration, security, climate change, and sustainable development.
Since its inception, three African-Turkish summits have been held: the first in Istanbul in 2008, the second in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, in 2014, and the third again in Istanbul in 2021. These summits have been instrumental in shaping the strategic relationship between Türkiye and African nations, resulting in numerous agreements and action plans aimed at boosting cooperation.
In addition to the summits, two ministerial meetings were held in Istanbul in 2011 and 2018, where progress in Türkiye-Africa relations was reviewed, and new initiatives were proposed to further strengthen ties.
The African Union, a 55-member organization established in 2002 to replace the Organization of African Unity (OAU), has been at the forefront of promoting unity, integration, and development across the continent. One of its key objectives is to establish a continental common market and enhance cooperation among member states.
By hosting the 2026 summit, Libya aims to showcase its commitment to playing a constructive role in Africa’s development and to highlight its potential as a bridge between the continent and the international community. The event is expected to serve as a platform for fostering deeper collaboration and addressing shared challenges, further solidifying Africa-Türkiye relations.
As Libya prepares to welcome leaders and delegates from across the continent and beyond, the 2026 African-Turkish Summit is poised to be a landmark event in Africa’s ongoing journey toward greater unity, prosperity, and global partnership.